Oxfam Bookshop

With such a large community of students, academics and other well-read residents living in the West End, it’s little wonder Byres Road has such a large and excellently stocked second hand charity bookshop as this Oxfam Books branch, based immediately next door to Hillhead Library.

The subject range is wide – everything from academic tomes, to titles on art, crime, fiction, literature, history, science, theology, travel and much more – each arranged in heavily-stacked individual shelves. While many books are old editions that have seen better days, you’re also liable to chance upon next-to-new copies, so come with an open mind, rather than expectations of something specific.

Despite being a relatively large shop, it can get cramped at busy times. Prices are slightly steep for a charity shop, but then again, it’s better-stocked than most. It’s also a good place to shop for Fair Trade food and gifts, particularly in the run up to the festive season.